MisanthroPlayhttp://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/Fri, 13 Sep 2019 10:09:47 +0000en-USSite-Server v6.0.0-19924-19924 (http://www.squarespace.com)MisanthroPopLondon's Favorite Alternative Video Games Podcast! (citation needed) MisanthroPlay is a video games podcast that approaches the medium from a leftist perspective. Frequently comedic with an appreciation for unusual narrative, unique mechanics, and underground weirdness, as well as big spectacle. Hosted by Robert Fenner (he/him) and Alva Chua (she/her)MisanthroPlay is a video games podcast that approaches the medium from a leftist perspective. Frequently comedic with an appreciation for unusual narrative, unique mechanics, and underground weirdness, as well as big spectacle. Hosted by Robert Fenner (he/him) and Alva Chua (she/her)yesMisanthroPopsecretplotx@gmail.comRobert Fenner & Alva Chua 2015-PresentepisodicAll Good Things....announcementsnurvussSun, 15 Sep 2019 09:46:43 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2019/9/13/all-good-things5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5d7b6aeb9de796402b66320b

Starting in early 2018, you may have noticed that MisanthroPlay Podcast started to break from its bi-weekly schedule, becoming less and less frequent until episodes stopped altogether in May 2019. Scheduling conflicts and our own projects have made it increasingly difficult for us to get together regularly, so Alva and I made the mutual decision to officially put a cap on the show.

This was an incredibly difficult decision for us both to make, as we’re very proud of what we managed to achieve over the course of the past four years. I’m afraid there won’t be one last hurrah episode, but we would like to curate a handful of our favourites.

So yeah, that’s us, I guess. I’m not particularly great about endings or goodbyes, but I will say that working together with Alva has been a joy and I feel that, in our brief time working together, we managed to put out some very exciting games critique that you couldn’t get anywhere else.

Alva’s got some performance art in the pipeline, and although it’s not ready to be revealed, follow her at @vinomatic for updates. You know where to find me, I’m @nurvuss as always, and you can subscribe to the (sporadic) podcast Gamer Words if you like. I’ve got a few more things I’m working at on the moment, and hope to make an official announcement soon.

We've got a thing for Spring. Alva and Robert discuss quality(?) TV programmes Gundam Unicorn, Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind, and Hannibal, before moving on to what games they've been playing (or not playing).

]]>MisanthroPlay Podcastyes00:50:25575fullwe talk smack on reactionary shitheads within game development, before we move on to discuss our thoughts on Resident Evil 2 Remake, Devil May Cry 5, The Division 2, and Warframe.

Alva and Robert look at video game marketing from the 80s to the 00s in America and the UK, and ruminate on Sonic the Hedgehog pissplay and Rayman’s gargantuan dong. We also talk about how to host your AMA on a message board for racist paedophiles, and Ape Out’s troubling equation of jazz with primal savagery.

We Play: Ape Out, La Mulana.

]]>MisanthroPlay Podcastyes01:30:29574fullAlva and Robert look at video game marketing from the 80s to the 00s in America and the UK, and ruminate on Sonic the Hedgehog pissplay and Rayman’s gargantuan dong. We also talk about how to host your AMA on a message board for racist paedophiles, and Ape Out’s troubling equation of jazz with primal savagery.

It’s the start of MisanthroPlay Season 5(!!) and we attended the Sunless Skies launch event at Failbetter Games’ South London office. We talk a little bit about that experience, and a whole lot about the first 10 hours of Sunless Skies, an unconventional and fiercely literary RPG that understands the potential of steampunk without stumbling down the usual pro-imperialist pratfalls.

Shortly after recording this podcast, it was announced that Spatsz of the French cold wave duo KaS Product had passed away. The intermission music in this week’s episode is KaS Product’s “Loony Bin” in tribute.

]]>MisanthroPlay Podcastno01:26:18573fullIt’s the start of MisanthroPlay Season 5(!!) and we attended the Sunless Skies launch event at Failbetter Games’ South London office. We talk a little bit about that experience, and a whole lot about the first 10 hours of Sunless Skies, an unconventional and fiercely literary RPG that understands the potential of steampunk without stumbling down the usual pro-imperialist pratfalls.

Shortly after recording this podcast, it was announced that Spatsz of the French cold wave duo KaS Product had passed away. The intermission music in this week’s episode is KaS Product’s “Loony Bin” in tribute.

Alva Chua explains to Robert Fenner who Bungie are, from Alex Saropian’s bedroom game Operation Desert Storm, to Halo, to their beloved/maligned Paul McCartney-featuring Destiny, and how the developer has weaved their approach to storytelling throughout their history. Join us to learn about sword logic and waterbeds.

]]>MisanthroPlay Podcastno01:37:22470fullAlva Chua explains to Robert Fenner who Bungie are, from Alex Saropian’s bedroom game Operation Desert Storm, to Halo, to their beloved/maligned Paul McCartney-featuring Destiny, and how the developer has weaved their approach to storytelling throughout their history. Join us to learn about sword logic and waterbeds.]]>#69 No Im Not Big Hat CowboyFeaturesPodcastsnurvussFri, 14 Dec 2018 09:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2018/12/14/69-no-im-not-big-hat-cowboy5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5c0d6c6070a6ad7e8a420022

#69 (nice)

no im not big hat cowboy

Robert and Alva discuss Red Dead Redemption 2, and how to examine a game surrounded by unacceptable labour practices.

We bring out the calipers to talk about the problematic legacy of Howard Phillips Lovecraft, and how games such as Bloodborne, Cultist Simulator, Sunless Sea, and Garfield Kart make a case for cosmic horror to leave the author behind.

We Play: Call of Cthulhu, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Death Mark.

Music this week is “Imps of the Perverse” and “The Evil Clergyman” by Rudimentary Peni

]]>MisanthroPlay Podcastno02:21:22467fullWe bring out the calipers to talk about the problematic legacy of Howard Phillips Lovecraft, and how games such as Bloodborne, Cultist Simulator, Sunless Sea, and Garfield Kart make a case for cosmic horror to leave the author behind.

We Play: Call of Cthulhu, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Death Mark.

Music this week is “Imps of the Perverse” and “The Evil Clergyman” by Rudimentary Peni

This week, Robert and Alva have an extended discussion on their own experiences with gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and the general horror and malaise of existence, before exploring a trio of excellent games that explore these themes: Sundae Month’s Diaries of a Spaceport Janitor, Kitty Horrorshow’s Anatomy, and Anna Anthropy’s dys4ia.

We also have a related conversation on the now-outdated Cyberpunk 2077 transphobic tweet debacle (since the recording of this podcast, CDPR’s social media manager has been outed as a proper bigot chud), and the trans character Rosetta seen in the Valkyria Chronicles 4 demo.

This week, Robert and Alva have an extended discussion on their own experiences with gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and the general horror and malaise of existence, before exploring a trio of excellent games that explore these themes: Sundae Month’s Diaries of a Spaceport Janitor, Kitty Horrorshow’s Anatomy, and Anna Anthropy’s dys4ia.

We also have a related conversation on the now-outdated Cyberpunk 2077 transphobic tweet debacle (since the recording of this podcast, CDPR’s social media manager has been outed as a proper bigot chud), and the trans character Rosetta seen in the Valkyria Chronicles 4 demo.

Robert and Alva are BACK, to talk about the symbiotic relationship between video games and tabletop games. We talk Steve Jackson Games, Operation Sundevil, the weird systems of Palladium's Robotech RPG, Baten Kaitos, Fallout's origins as a GURPS adaptation, and how apps are becoming more and more ubiquitous as gamemaster stand-ins.

The servers may be dead, but MisanthroPlay lives: Alva and Robert discuss the impact of Demon's Souls, FromSoft's unlikely and esoteric action RPG that would forever change the face of video games. Even after all these years, we still don't know how World Tendency works.

Also, We Play Far Cry 5, Swords of Ditto, Sky Rogue, and a return to No Man's Sky.

It's the second of the month, so grab this pod and come on! Robert and Alva reconvene after a month of thrills, chills, and spills, to tell you what they've been playing. This week, we chew over the new Shadow of the Colossus remake, Romancing SaGa 2, Celeste, Iconoclasts, Full Metal Furies, Zwei: The Ilvard Insurrection, and a certain re-release makes us bring out that age old chestnut: is Bayonetta feminist?

We'll be back in two weeks with an episode on the recent server shutdown of Demon's Souls, so write in with your thoughts and memories.

Surprise! Cocoa Controller's Samer Farag joins Robert for an in-depth and spoiler-filled discussion of Doki Doki Literature Club, a romance visual novel about Japanese high school girls, poetry, and definitely nothing else. It's best that you play it before listening, and you definitely should, as it's both free and short.

Robert and Alva find a little time to break away from hiatus to discuss Monster Hunter: World, the latest in Capcom's genre-defining hunting franchise. Alva's well acquainted, while Robert has virtually no experience. Can these two knuckleheads get along? 9.30/8.30 central on MisanthroPop.

After a few delays, the third and final episode of our Supergiant Deep Look is here, with an examination of 2017's sleeper hit Pyre. A curious blend of visual novel, RPG, and sports, Pyre follows a group of exiles called the Nightwings, as they attempt to earn the right to escape a purgatorial plane called The Downside...through some sick slam dunks.

In the final episode we recorded in 2017, Alva and Robert look at Red Candle Games' debut Detention, a horror adventure set in a Taiwanese high school during the height of the White Terror. Beware of spoilers.

Supergiant Season carries on with 2014's Transistor, a hybrid of turn-based strategy and real-time combat wrapped around an existential cyberpunk mystery. We walk through the game before sharing our interpretations of the story. It's a thoughtful and ponderous title brimming with style and substance, and one we're thrilled to dig into.

Somehow, Robert has never played a Supergiant game. Alva, in her infinite wisdom, suggested that MisanthroPlay spend the next 6 weeks looking at all three of their games. This week, we start at the very beginning with Bastion (2011), the Soul Blazer-meets-Spaghetti Western action RPG with the dynamic narrator. We talk about the mechanics, the plot, and the message at its core.

In We Play, we play Xenoblade Chronicles 2 and have complicated (but ultimately positive) feelings about. Also, Robert loses his Vita and gets it back through a Faustian deal.

Content Warning: It's flu season here in London, so regrettably we're pretty sniffly this week. We have fired each other from the podcast to make up for this grievous mistake. Please stay tuned for

We talked about the striking games of witchy Portland-based developer Rani Baker back in Episode #51, so we thought it was about time to just have her on the show! Rani Baker joins Alva and Robert to discuss her games, her creative process, her inspirations, and haunted technology.

Robert invites Derek Heemsbergen of the Astral Era podcast and RPGFan to MisanthroPlay for a brief discussion of their individual histories with MMORPGs, before Robert prods Derek to explain what makes Final Fantasy XIV so special, as well as tips for newcomers on how to get to grips with its lush world.

Seeing as our last episode was late, we've decided to spoil you with another episode this week. Robert and Alva catch up on what they've been playing this week, starting with a shout-out to Jordan Reyne's 600,000 word interactive novel Choice of the Cat, before discussing how to navigate Chaos;Child's depiction of women through a post-Weinstein lens. We also have a frank discussion on whether Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus's "No More Nazis" advertising campaign is cynical, uplifting, or both; appreciate Natsume's fine localization work on Lufia 2: Rise of the Sinistrals; have unmitigated joy in Super Mario Odyssey; and we even do some investigation into the heart of the RuneScape cartel.

Robert and Alva sit down with the multi-talented Jeremy Blaustein (Metal Gear Solid, Snatcher, Silent Hill 2, Shadow Hearts Covenant) to discuss his twenty-five year career in the Japanese games industry. We discuss the ups, the downs, the role of the translator as creator, the dilemma of translating Trump, and kiboshed Snatcher remakes and sequels.

It's our annual Halloween Haunt, so MisanthroPlay are looking at the ghostly cute `em up Kiki Kaikai, better known in the West as Pocky & Rocky. We look the series' origins as a Taito arcade shooter, before Natsume licensed the characters to create two gorgeous, if not frustrating SNES romps. We also learn you don't need to call Becky to have a good time.

Alva guides Robert on a whistle stop tour of some of Compile's best known scrolling shooters: Blazing Lazers/Gunhed, M.U.S.H.A/Musha Aleste, Robo Aleste/Dennin Aleste, and Space Megaforce/Super Aleste. Join us on this journey through time and space in which we both falsely attribute Kim Cattrall to two movies she had nothing to do with.

We're a little late this week after running into some editing trouble, but we managed to shoot through. Alva and Robert discuss Vic Tokai's Battle Mania duology, a pair of Mega Drive shooters that meld Forgotten Worlds with Dirty Pair. Prepare for more trouble!

If you enjoy MisanthroPlay and wish to buy some of the games we talked about on this week's episode, please consider purchasing through our affiliate links above! We get a tiny percentage of purchases made and it would help us keep the lights on. Alternatively, please leave us a positive review over on iTunes.

Alva and Robert take some time pouring over the games of the wonderfully unique Rani Baker (Patreon, Itch, Blog), a solo developer who combines zinester sensibilities, sonic art, and 80s Macintosh aesthetics to create a body of work that's fresh, political, and kvlt as fvck.

We did it! Alva and Robert celebrate their milestone episode by talking about anything and everything. From the canonical MisanthroPlay Origin Story, to passport woes, `90s cyber cafes, sharks using keycards, and buying video games from a denim-clad Charlie Brooker, no topic is taboo.

In this mini-episode, Robert invites illustrator, whackademic, and prankster Justyna Burzynska for a discussion of Dominique Pamplemousse, the claymation point and click musical starring a genderqueer private eye. Even if you don't like musicals, there's a lot to enjoy here.

MisanthroPlay goes old-old-skool in a look at the history of Space Invaders, from its inception and imitators, to its numerous artistic revivals in honour of the game's 30th anniversary in 2008. We even talk about Cosmo Gang, just because we can.

It's another Deep Dive episode as Alva and Robert sift through What Remains of Edith Finch, Giant Sparrow's quirky narrative adventure about a young woman returning home to delve into her family's tragic history. This episode is heavy on spoilers, so you've been warned.

In We Play, Alva stays fresh in Splatoon 2, while Robert slices his way to joy in Severed. We also touch on the first few hours of Pyre and Root Double.

We can hardly believe it, but we're gearing up to record our 50th (COUNT IT FIFTIETH) episode. And we want to hear from you! Thoughts, anecdotes, questions, suggestions, topic/game journal requests, the lot!

Leave a comment below, or send them over to www.misanthropop.com/contact for a chance to be read on this milestone episode. We've already received a few great letters, but we're always welcoming more. Keep `em coming.

Robert introduces Alva to one of his personal favorites: Exile, the existentalist Hashishin action RPG from the mavens at Nippon Telenet, and a criminally unrecognized one at that. Grab your hash, your LSD, and your copy of the Illuminatus!, and get ready for a crisis-of-faith road trip across time and space with Sadler the Sadboi. It's gonna be a bumpy ride that's holy-to-the-MAX.

Fashionably late, it's MisanthroPlay's E3 2017 episode! Robert was casing the floors of the Los Angeles Convention Center in the doughy pink flesh this year, and he's brought all the hot scoops you've probably already heard about. Alva and Robert discuss what's hot, what's not, and the sleeper hits that may have flown under the radar.

We also have time to Play Dead Cells, River City: Knights of Justice, and ARMS.

Finally, we crack open the mailbag to discuss favorite RPGs and Robert's traumatic childhood incident that will forever equate the beloved Phantasy Star IV with less-beloved racism.

Slightly delayed as Robert gets over jetlag, comes our episode on Treasure's classic Gunstar Heroes. Alva and Robert discuss their experiences with the game, what makes it so special, and how spiritual sequel Gunstar Super Heroes measures up.

This week in We Play: Prey, Cosmic Star Heroine, Birthdays: the Beginning, Injustice 2, The Caligula Effect, and Strafe.

What do you know, we've started a game music podcast. The Background Lounge is open, and it's jazz on the menu tonight. Robert Fenner hand-picks his favorite tracks from a variety of games and arranged albums.

It's no secret that NieR Automata set our hearts ablaze this Spring, so MisanthroPlay invited Heidi Kemps to get down to the brass tacks on what this wet-behind-the-ears Yoko Taro upstart's really all about.

Alva takes Robert down the rabbit hole of Archon, Free Fall Associates' and Electronic Arts' mashup of chess and arcade dueling. We look at its influence on later titles such as Cyber Empires, The Unholy War, and Wrath Unleashed, as well as wonder if Archon inspired Godzilla: Master of Monsters or Vasteel.

MisanthroPlay has rolled forty episodes deep, so Alva and Robert count down their individual Top Ten RPGs. We've got your Final Fantasies, your Personas, your obscure Telenet RPGs...We won't spoil the whole list here, so dive right in and listen to all twenty!

Write in with your own favorites at our contact page, and maybe we'll do a mailbag follow-up!

Bob's a slow boy, so it's an ooooold episode of MisanthroPlay that only just got edited! But hey, considering the critical acclaim Breath of the Wild has received, it's nothing if not topical. Alva and Robert look back on Thirty Whole Years of Zelda Clones. What's blatant, what's original, what works, what doesn't!

The first half of 2017 has sped by, bringing dozens of outstanding games along for the ride. We take a little time out to talk about some of the awesome stuff we've been playing. Namely: Nioh, Night in the Woods, Detention and For Honor.

We can hardly believe this, but Etrian Odyssey is a decade old, guys. We take stock of Atlus' Sim Cartographer series from its humble beginnings and discover just how much Etrian Odyssey revitalised the dungeon crawler genre.

In We Play, Alvin shows off Dandy Dungeon, the latest mobile game from insane genius Yoshiro Kimura, before Nioh sets his Samurai Soul ablaze and Gravity Rush 2 puts him in a daze. Robert is pleasantly surprised by Tales of Berseria, and plays Yakuza 5 out of penniless longing for Yakuza 0.

*Correction: Etrian Odyssey character artist Yuji Himukai was not involved with Habanero-tan, nor VanillaWare. The artist in question is Shigatake, who Himukai collaborated with on the game Kumatanchi.

Notes

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastWe can hardly believe this, but Etrian Odyssey is a decade old, guys. We take stock of Atlus' Sim Cartographer series from its humble beginnings and discover just how much Etrian Odyssey revitalised the dungeon crawler genre.We can hardly believe this, but Etrian Odyssey is a decade old, guys. We take stock of Atlus' Sim Cartographer series from its humble beginnings and discover just how much Etrian Odyssey revitalised the dungeon crawler genre. Also, We Play Dandy Dungeon, Nioh, Gravity Rush 2, Tales of Berseria and Yakuza 5.no02:25:03#35 Interview with Jordan Reyne / Resident Evil VII ImpressionsGuests!FeaturesPodcastsnurvussFri, 03 Feb 2017 09:25:50 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2017/2/2/35-interview-with-jordan-reyne-resident-evil-vii-impressions5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5893b22059cc68f6efd3f596

MisanthroPlay sits down for an interview with industrial folk musician Jordan Reyne, vocalist of Resident Evil VII's memorable theme "Go Tell Aunt Rhody". Jordan talks to us about her creative process, her stage performance at the Resident Evil VII Launch Event in Tokyo, throwing up horns with the head of Capcom, and her own game which is currently in the works.

Following the interview, We Play a whole bunch of Resident Evil VII. And guess what? It's really good.

Robert and Alvin talk about Playdead's pair of atmospheric and lethal platformers in this double-bill episode of MisanthroPlay. Limbo sees a young boy navigate a hostile world in silhouette, while Inside recontextualizes Limbo's initial setup to raise some thought-provoking questions on the nature of free will.

Are we individuals, or are we just a bunch of rubes living in Adam Curtis' Century of the Self? Who can say? Listen and find out.

Some kids grew up with Castlevania. Other kids had Valis. Robert explains to Alvin why he's so maladjusted in this tribute to Nippon Telenet's short-lived series of Beautiful Fighting Girls.

In We Play, Alvin coaxes the catdogbird that is Trico of The Last Guardian, while Robert drunkenly staggers through Steins;Gate 0, before treating himself to Shantae: Half Genie Hero and Stardew Valley.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastWe close out 2016 with the celebration of Star Trek's semi-centennial. Alvin tells Robert all about Star Trek's long video game history. We Play: Destiny: The Rise of Iron, The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 2, Phoenix Wright: Spirit of Justice and Duelyst. We close out 2016 with the celebration of Star Trek's semi-centennial. Alvin tells Robert all about Star Trek's long video game history. We Play: Destiny: The Rise of Iron, The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 2, Phoenix Wright: Spirit of Justice and Duelyst. yes01:51:13#30 Four Bright Buttons and Two JoysticksPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 23 Dec 2016 09:38:22 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/12/22/30-neo-geo-snk-mvs5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:585c548ab3db2b11cec00bc3

Impressive, entertaining, expensive and unviable, we pay tribute to the best worst home console, SNK's Neo Geo. Merry Christmas?

We Play Dead Rising 4, Let it Die, Pokémon Sun & Moon and Dragon Quest VII. Also we talk about our cats.

Robert and Alvin ReKoeict about Koei with fondness, from their origins as a chemical company-turned-grand strategy developer, to the Musou factory we know and love. Oh, and a brief look at their hentai games.

We Play: More No Man's Sky, more Witcher 3, Leap of Fate and Deus Ex Go.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastA Kou Shibusawa Podcast.Robert and Alvin ReKoeict about Koei with fondness, from their origins as a chemical company-turned-grand strategy developer, to the Musou factory we know and love. Oh, and a brief look at their hentai games. We Play: More No Man's Sky, more Witcher 3, Leap of Fate and Deus Ex Goyes01:48:55Episode #28 Fifteen Hours with Final Fantasy XVPodcastsFeaturesSpecialnurvussFri, 09 Dec 2016 09:09:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/final-fantasy-xv-wow-can-you-believe-it5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:58467ccbe58c6223015a0b78

It's here! After ten long years, Final Fantasy XV is finally out. But is it good? Robert and Alvin get to grips with Final Fantasy XV in a spoiler-free podcast.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastIt's here! After ten long years, Final Fantasy XV is finally out. But is it good? Robert and Alvin get to grips with Final Fantasy XV in a spoiler-free podcast.It's here! After ten long years, Final Fantasy XV is finally out. But is it good? Robert and Alvin get to grips with Final Fantasy XV in a spoiler-free podcast.yes01:35:44Episode #27 Ninja CucksPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 02 Dec 2016 10:01:11 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/11/30/episode-27-ninja-cucks5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:583f3c23893fc01e71b83c7a

Ninjas! They're ubiquitous, both in video games and everyday life. Robert and Alvin take to the Shadow of Darkness and expose the link between Shinobi and Wham!

In We Play: It's all about Dishonored 2 and Watch Dogs 2, baby. With a little bit of Dishonored 1, for good measure.

Notes

Stephen K Hayes

Eric von Lussbader

Enter the Ninja

Sho Kasugi

Game Center CX: Ninja Gaiden

Hardcore Gaming 101: Revenge of Shinobi (Copyright Infringement)

Hardcore Gaming 101: Ninja 5-0

Shinobi: Heart Under Blade

Upcoming Shinobi movie?

Retsupurae: Shinobi Legions

Victor Antenov

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastPost-election 2016 is a brave new world, but we'll always have Ninjas.Robert and Alvin take to the Shadow of Darkness and expose the link between Shinobi and Wham! Also, we play Dishonored 2, Dishonored 1, and Watch Dogs 2.yes03:07Episode #26 Power Suit Paladins and Mages with MulletsFeaturesPodcastsnurvussFri, 25 Nov 2016 09:09:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/11/23/episode-26-eighties-hair-and-role-playing-games5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5835ffd0d2b857b88ee1d46e

Start booting up the Apple II and grab your swords, shields and Hall and Oates records, because it's time to MisanthRolePlay in the 1980s.

Robert and Alvin trace the genesis of computer role playing games, from Ultima and Wizardry in the West, to Japanese Wizardry remakes and Falcom's Dragon Slayer in the East.

This wee in We Play, Out There and Reigns, along with some very outdated hot takes on No Man's Sky. Better late than never?

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastStart booting up the Apple II and grab your swords, shields and Hall and Oates records, because it's time to MisanthRolePlay in the 1980s.Start booting up the Apple II and grab your swords, shields and Hall and Oates records, because it's time to MisanthRolePlay in the 1980s. Robert and Alvin trace the genesis of computer role playing games, from Ultima and Wizardry in the West, to Japanese Wizardry remakes and Falcom's Dragon Slayer in the East.yes01:45:55Episode #25 Racing Down the Information Superhighway at the Speed of LightPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 18 Nov 2016 09:09:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/11/13/episode-25-futuristic-racing-down-the-information-superhighway5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5828cfc43e00be54521b6593

Strap in and strap on, MisanthroPlay push the cyber pedal to the cyber metal of Futuristic Racing Games. Pull up the bumper, baby.

Also this week, We PlayRedout, Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey and EverSpace.

Notes

]]>MisanthroPlay Podcastyes01:53:24MisanthroPlay Will Return Next WeekannouncementsnurvussFri, 11 Nov 2016 09:45:31 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/11/11/misanthroplay-will-return-next-week5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5825930ee58c626411180b8dI just need to grieve for my country a little longer. Tomorrow we rebuild.

Get ready to jack into the matrix, because Neo MisanthroPlay is about to E-X-P-L-O-D-E. Robert and Alvin take a trip down artificially-implemented memory lane to remember Cyberpunk wholesale, and examine its influence on games at large.

Side note, we're happy to announce we've got such a backlog of episodes at the moment that we're able to provide you with weekly episodes of MisanthroPlay throughout the month of November. It's like Christmas come early!

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastGet ready to jack into the matrix, because Neo MisanthroPlay is about to E-X-P-L-O-D-E.Robert and Alvin take a trip down artificially-implemented memory lane to remember Cyberpunk wholesale, and examine its influence on games at large. Also, We Play: Abzu, Quadrilateral Cowboy, Stellaris, Shiren the Wanderer: The Tower of Fortune and the Dice of Fate, Little Noah/Battle Champs, and TiltBrush.yes03:01:25Episode #23 Video Game NastiesPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 28 Oct 2016 08:09:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/10/24/23-video-game-nasties-halloween-special5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:580df0d6d2b857e4d23bba63

We're closing in on Halloween, and what better way to celebrate than with some ghoulish gore? This week we look at the games that would give Joe Lieberman a coronary and make Mary Whitehouse spin in her grave: It's Video Game Nasties, from Chiller to Rule of Rose.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastHappy Halloween! We look at the games that would give Joe Lieberman a coronary and make Mary Whitehouse spin in her grave: It's Video Game Nasties, from Chiller to Rule of Rose.Happy Halloween! We look at the games that would give Joe Lieberman a coronary and make Mary Whitehouse spin in her grave: It's Video Game Nasties, from Chiller to Rule of Rose. We Play: Mafia 3, Shin Megami Tensei IV APOCALYPSE, Battlefield 1, and Thumper.yes02:56:30Episode #22 Survival Horror History LessonPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 14 Oct 2016 08:01:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/10/11/22-survival-horror5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:57fc8be9e4fcb5f48d6f66df

Seasons' Greetings, Misanthro-Playboys & Playgirls! Seeing as it's October, we take a look back at Survival Horror. We assess what defines "Survival Horror", before moving on to pivotal titles and how they developed or changed the genre, from Sweet Home and Resident Evil all the way up to The Last Of Us, and we ask if poor controls are essential to an effective horror experience. We even get into some slightly obscure territory, so Laplace no Ma and Hellnight fans, we gotcha covered.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastRobert and Alvin examine what defines Survival Horror. It's October, so we take a look back at Survival Horror. We assess what defines "Survival Horror", before moving on to pivotal titles and how they developed or changed the genre, from Sweet Home and Resident Evil all the way up to The Last Of Us, and we ask if poor controls are essential to an effective horror experience.yes02:16:17Save Point - Virginia SpoilercastPodcastsSave PointsnurvussFri, 30 Sep 2016 08:10:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/9/30/save-point-virginia-spoilercast5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:57ed8167b3db2bd1445a05e5

Surprise! It's your third week of MisanthroPlay in a row. This week, Robert and Alvin talk through Virginia, the cinematic debut from Variable State. We're both of the opinion that Virginia is a game best experienced blind, so if you haven't played it yet, stop right here and come back once you've finished, because we spoil the heck out of this one.

In short, Virginia is pretty damn excellent, and we think you'll enjoy both the game and this episode. Don't forget to send us a message with your interpretation of the game's symbolism for a chance to be read on our next mailbag episode.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastRobert and Alvin talk through Virginia, the excellent cinematic debut from Variable State. We're both of the opinion that Virginia is a game best experienced blind, so if you haven't played it yet, stop right here and come back once you've finished, because we spoil the heck out of this one.Robert and Alvin talk through Virginia, the excellent cinematic debut from Variable State. We're both of the opinion that Virginia is a game best experienced blind, so if you haven't played it yet, stop right here and come back once you've finished, because we spoil the heck out of this one.yes01:11:40Episode #21 The Persona 20th Anniversary ExtravaganzaPodcastsFeaturesGuests!nurvussFri, 23 Sep 2016 08:10:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/9/20/episode-21-persona5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:57e1a0d1c534a5faba5a77e9

Persona 5's just dropped in Japan, and right on time: September 20th 2016 marks the twenty year anniversary of Atlus' beloved flagship JRPG of metropolitan friends fighting mythic figures. A special occasion calls for a special guest, so we invited the charming Bob Mackey (Retronauts, USGamer, Talking Simpsons) to discuss the ins and outs of Persona and how it's changed over the years.

It also happens to be MisanthroPlay's first anniversary! We've had a lot of fun producing episodes of this little podcast over the course of the past year, and we're thrilled that we're able to release on a regular schedule. Our listener numbers have nearly doubled over the course of the summer, and a very special thank you goes out to all of you for tuning in, writing in, and leaving iTunes reviews. You're all amazing and we love you.

This week we tackle the most homoerotic of all video game genres: beat em ups. Glistening abs and unbridled masculinity take rough justice to the streets! Everybody knows Final Fight and Streets of Rage, but have you heard the good word of Knuckle Bash? Now you will.

Apologies in advance for the numerous sound difficulties that occur throughout this episode. I'm pleased to announce this is the final episode we recorded with our crappy old microphones. Good things ahead!

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastThis week we tackle the most homoerotic of all video game genres: beat em ups. Glistening abs and unbridled masculinity take rough justice to the streets! Everybody knows Final Fight and Streets of Rage, but have you heard the good word of Knuckle Bash? Now you will. This week we tackle the most homoerotic of all video game genres: beat em ups. Glistening abs and unbridled masculinity take rough justice to the streets! Everybody knows Final Fight and Streets of Rage, but have you heard the good word of Knuckle Bash? Now you will. Also We Play Mirrors Edge Catalyst, Panzer Dragoon Saga, Shining the Holy Ark, Soul Sacrifice Delta, Furi, Robert tries Alvin's HTC Vive, and Alvin spends fifteen minutes with Pokemon Go.yes02:06:56Episode #19 A Quarter Century of Super NintendoPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 02 Sep 2016 10:36:51 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/episode-19-snes5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:57c93b09b3db2b6e1699391d

MisanthroPlay celebrates 25 Years of Super Nintendo, looking at its hardware, the weird and wonderful FX Chip, and our essential games, as we also relate our own fond memories of this influential machine. Would you believe it revitalized the visual novel genre in Japan? Listen and find out more.

In What Have You Been Playing, we're both sneakin' around in Deus Ex Mankind Divided. Alvin watches Final Fantasy XV Kingsglaive.

If he's a good boy, it's a Wonder! This week, MisanthroPlay covers the game series that went on to inspire the Michael Chabon novel: Wonder Boy. Starting as a Mario derivative before developer Westone became obsessed with Wizardry, Wonder Boy's lifespan may have been short at just under a decade, but it's undeniable that the series has produced some of the best exploratory platform adventures long before anybody had ever uttered the phrase MetroidVania. We finish up by looking to the future, where not one but two officially licensed Wonder Boy titles are due out before the end of 2016.

And if you're wondering if we get into that whole Adventure Island business, you bet we do, along with Bikkuriman, Dynastic Hero, Turma de Monica and all the greats. Even you, Saiyuki World! Take a bow.

In What Have You Been Playing, Alvin hacks and slashes through Odin Sphere Leifthrasir and decides to stay in Inside, while Robert is underwhelmed by Zero Time DIlemma, but surprised and impressed with Uncharted 4. Also, an investigative report: is Tokyo Mirage Sessions and Digimon Cyber Sleuth the exact same game? All this, and less.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastThis week, MisanthroPlay covers the game series that went on to inspire the Michael Chabon novel: Wonder Boy.Wonder Boy's lifespan may have been short at just under a decade, but it's undeniable that the series has produced some of the best exploratory platform adventures long before anybody had ever uttered the phrase MetroidVania. We examine this beloved series inside and out, along with that whole Adventure Island business. Also, we play Odin Sphere Leifthrasir, Inside, Zero Time Dilemma, Uncharted 4, and Tokyo Mirage Sessionsyes02:37:25Episode #17 Space is the PlacePodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 05 Aug 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/8/4/episode-17-space-is-the-place5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:57a2e8d520099e6b9720218c

MisanthroPlay takes to the stars this week with an extensive look at one of Alvin's favourite genres: Space Flight Simulators. From its humble origins in Spacewar! to better known entries like Elite and Star Control 2, and even some weirder Japanese games like Star Cruiser and Infinite Space. Finally, we look to the future to see how Star Citizen is shaping up, and to voice our excitement for next week's long-awaited arrival of No Man's Sky.

In What Have You Been Playing, Alvin spends more time with The Witcher 3, enables VR for a return to ADR1FT, blasts some bugs in Earth Defense Force 4.1: Shadow of New Despair and steps into the digital card game future with Star Realms and Twilight Struggle. Robert is underwhelmed by I am Setsuna's overt pulling of nostalgic heartstrings, but has an excellent time with supernatural thriller Oxenfree: Director's Cut. Also, nobody gets to play Shiren the Wanderer 5.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastTake to the stars and achieve your dreams! MisanthroPlay heads to space...in simulation form!We're about to launch! From its humble origins in Spacewar! to better known entries like Elite and Star Control 2, and even some weirder Japanese games like Star Cruiser and Infinite Space. Finally, we look to the future to see how Star Citizen is shaping up, and to voice our excitement for next week's long-awaited arrival of No Man's Sky. Also, we play the Witcher 3, ADR1FT, Earth Defense Force 4.1, Twilight Struggle, Star Realms, I am Setsuna and Oxenfree: Director's Cut.yes02:49:07Episode #16(bit) The Sega Saga: Mega Drive & SaturnPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 22 Jul 2016 07:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/episode-16-sega-megadrive-saturn5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:578de96d20099e58a6b2c5c4

VISUALSHOCK! SPEEDSHOCK! SOUNDSHOCK! NOW IS THE TIME TO PODCAST HEART ON FIRE! Yes, we're talking about Sega! Robert and Alvin take look at the founding of Sega and their arcade output, before giving each other Cyber Razor Cuts to focus on their halcyon years in the early-to-mid 90s: Particularly, their Mega Drive/Genesis and Saturn consoles. We both have a lot of fond memories here, perhaps too many to fit into one podcast! We salute you, Sega.

In What Have You Been Playing?, Alvin enjoys Subnautica, Kirby Planet Robobot, and experiments with Dolphin VR, while Robert grows exasperated with Star Ocean: Integrity and Faithlessness (read his review here!) but falls in love with Black Closet.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastVisualshock! Speedshock! Soundshock! Now is the time to podcast heart on fire! Robert and Alvin look at the Sega Mega Drive and Saturn.Robert and Alvin give each other Cyber Razor Cuts to pay respect to the Sega Mega Drive and Saturn consoles. Also, we play Subnautica, Kirby Planet Robobot, Dolphin VR, Star Ocean 5 and Black Closet.yes02:46:00Episode #15 Pinball GizzardsPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 08 Jul 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/7/8/episode-15-pinball-gizzards5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:577e984620099e0c9b034abc

It's retro in a big way this week, as we get up on the mic to talk about ball play. That's right, it's a frank discussion of pinball and a range of video games that aimed to emulate that clinky clanky experience. Sometimes admirable (Alien Crush), sometimes baffling (Odama), but always worth a dime of your time.

In What Have You Been Playing, Robert ditches lacklustre myster visual novel Magic Eyes in favor of absurd public-domain literary love adventure Ozmafia!!, while Alvin dives back into The Witcher 3, but not before dropping the bombshell that he's now the proud owner of an HTC Vive! That means there's talk of House of the Dying Sun and Space Pirate Trainer, among other things. Oh, and everybody loves Vanquish.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastThis week we talk about classic pinball tables and the video games they went on to inspire. Also, we play Magical Eyes, Ozmafia!!, The Witcher 3, House of the Dying Sun, Vanquish and Alvin gets an HTC Vive.This week we talk about classic pinball tables and the video games they went on to inspire. Also, we play Magical Eyes, Ozmafia!!, The Witcher 3, House of the Dying Sun, Vanquish and Alvin gets an HTC Vive.yes01:35:34Episode #14 Guilty PleasuresPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 24 Jun 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/episode-14-guilty-pleasures-fanservice5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:576c37ace4fcb5bcdb395269

Have you ever played a game that just made you feel....dirty and ashamed? C'mon, admit it, you kinda liked it, didn't you? This week we bare all and talk about our past secret rendezvous with idle games, clickers and fanservice vehicles.

In What Have You Been Playing, Brigador brings the mobile suit merriment, and we also get to grips with Wasteland 2, The Banner Saga, Valkyria Chronicles Remastered, Overwatch, and More Momodora Four.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastThis week we detail our "favorite" guilty pleasures, from Clicker Heroes to Senran Kagura.Have you ever played a game that just made you feel...dirty and ashamed? And you kinda liked it? Whether it's Clicker Heroes, Senran Kagura or Sakura Wars, we sure did. Also, we play Brigador, Wasteland 2, The Banner Saga, Valkyria Chronicles Remastered, Overwatch and Momodora 4.noSpecial - E3 2016 ReactionsPodcastsSpecialnurvussMon, 20 Jun 2016 20:25:29 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/6/20/special-e3-2016-reactions5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5768506837c5819f39247963The wild ride that is E3 has come and gone for another year, but not before Alvin and Robert react to its sights and sounds from afar.

This episode is plagued with technical issues! It's almost like you're really at an E3 press conference.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastThe wild ride that is E3 has come and gone for another year, but not before Alvin and Robert react to its sights and sounds from afar. This episode is plagued with technical issues! It's almost like you're really at an E3 press conference.The wild ride that is E3 has come and gone for another year, but not before Alvin and Robert react to its sights and sounds from afar. This episode is plagued with technical issues! It's almost like you're really at an E3 press conference.yes01:01:18Episode #13 Remembering the Xbox 360PodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 10 Jun 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/episode-13-3605409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5757112340261d96c444435e

A few weeks ago, Microsoft announced that they would no longer be producing new Xbox 360 consoles, the sign of the true end of a console generation. So we thought we'd take some time out to reminisce about our fondest memories of the console, from Alan Wake to the weirdness of Xbox Live Indies, and everything in between.

In What Have You Been Playing, Alvin and Robert get flirty over the fishy Uncharted 4, Momodora 4, DOOM 4 and Trails of Cold Steel...1.

Xbox 360, we salute you!

Notes

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastA few weeks ago, Microsoft announced that they would no longer be producing new Xbox 360 consoles, so we reminisce about everything from Alan Wake to the weirdness of Xbox Live Indies. We salute you! Also, we play Uncharted 4, Momodora 4, DOOM 4 and Trails of Cold Steel...1.A few weeks ago, Microsoft announced that they would no longer be producing new Xbox 360 consoles, so we reminisce about everything from Alan Wake to the weirdness of Xbox Live Indies. We salute you! Also, we play Uncharted 4, Momodora 4, DOOM 4 and Trails of Cold Steel...1.yes02:06:30Episode #12 Castlemania!PodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 27 May 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/5/26/episode-12-castlemania5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5747470e40261d31f445315f

We've resurrected, and just in time to talk about Konami's classic series Castlevania! Spanning three decades of Dracula-whippin', deliberate-jumpin', Medusa-hatin' horror action, Robert and Alvin discuss their early experiences with the Game Boy spin-offs before chewing over key points in the series. We start with classics Castlevania 1-3 and the drab-yet-jazzy Super Castlevania 4, before moving on to fan favorites Rondo of Blood and Symphony of the Night, finishing with a brief look at the handheld "Igavania" titles and the misguided Lords of Shadow reboot.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastWe've resurrected to talk about beloved Konami franchise Castlevania. It's a Graveyard SMAAAASH!This week we talk about one of Alvin's favorite game series: Konami's Castlevania. We cover classics Castlevania 1-3 and the drab-yet-jazzy Super Castlevania 4, before moving on to fan favorites Rondo of Blood and Symphony of the Night, finishing with a brief look at the handheld "Igavania" titles and the misguided Lords of Shadow reboot.yes02:08:43Save Point - Kara no ShōjoPodcastsSave PointsnurvussFri, 06 May 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/savepoint-kara5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:57276bbc5559869e246336fb

In this week's Save Point, Robert talks about Innocent Grey's adult visual novel Kara no Shōjo. Set in post-war Tokyo, Kara no Shōjo follows private detective Tokisaka Reiji as tries to track down a serial killer responsible for the deaths of several high school girls. It's a problematic work, but a fascinating one nonetheless.

Is Dark Souls III a metaphor for From's sense of obligation to their publisher and their fans? We don't know, we're only ten hours in! But we're big fans so far. The latest entry in the Soulsbourne Saga is the most polished to date, and possibly the most fun to play. Listen to us gush about its glory, and ruminate on the future of the series. Light spoilers beware, so skip to the 34 minute mark if you want to go in to Dark Souls III fresh.

In What Have You Been Playing, Robert lets Steins;Gate sing him to sleep while Alvin struggles to control his arms in ADR1FT. We also look ahead to Severed, Battlefleet Gothic: Armada and Shin Megami Tensei IV APOCALYPSE.

Sorry in advance about the scratchiness on this one, folks. We had a stubble mishap!

Notes

Death's Gambit (the 2D Souls-inspired game that Robert couldn't remember)

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastDark Souls III has rekindled our burning desire for From Soft. Also, we play Steins;Gate and ADR1FT, and look forward to Severed, Battlefleet Gothic: Armada and Shin Megami Tensei IV APOCALYPSEIs Dark Souls III a metaphor for From's sense of obligation to their publisher and their fans? We don't know, we're only ten hours in! But we're big fans so far. Also this week, we play Steins;Gate and ADR1FT.yes02:01:31Episode #10 A Procedurally Generated Podcast FeaturesPodcastsnurvussFri, 15 Apr 2016 11:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/4/15/episode-105409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5710a07c59827ee0180b7972

Robert and Alvin talk about games that make use of procedural generation to inform their play experience. From the randomized dungeons of Rogue, Diablo and their Japanese cousin Mystery Dungeon, to more unconventional uses such as The Elder Scrolls' ill-fated Radiant AI system.

In more general gaming, we both playSalt and Sanctuary, Robert anticipates Dark Souls 3 by picking up his old Dark Souls save, while Alvin does the same with Dark Souls 2. We've also give impressions on Hyper Light Drifter and Enter the Gungeon, and continue the dungeon theme with Stranger of Sword City and Legend of Grimrock.

Thanks for tuning in, and join us next week as we put a hosepipe to the Turing Test.

Sorry folks; due to scheduling conflicts, there won't be a new feature-length episode of MisanthroPlay this week. However, I thought I'd try something a little different to plug the gap: a little something I call MisanthroPlay Save Points. If you've heard our very first episode about Faria, you'll recognize the format: a shorter, written episode on one game in particular.

This inaugural Save Point episode is all about Hideo Kojima's Snatcher, as adapted from the piece I wrote on it for this very site last year. We'll be bringing you a slightly fresher Save Point next time, but we hope you enjoy this experiment.

Catch us next Friday for the return of Alvin for a feature episode!

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastIn a Nutshell: Homicidal Commie Androids invade Japan while one man and his robot buddy learn the true meaning of Christmas.It's a short episode this week as Alvin couldn't make it, so Robert monologues about his love for Hideo Kojima's Snatcher.no00:13:06Episode #9 A Weekend in HellPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 25 Mar 2016 12:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/episode-9-a-weekend-in-hell5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:56f2fdf001dbaef178cff973

Hallelujah, it's Good Friday! In keeping with the theme of this wonderous four day weekend, this episode of MisanthroPlay discusses video game depictions of the hottest of afterlife destinations. From the heavy metal-tinged inferno of Doom to the filthy vermin-filled pits of Yokai Dochuuki, we examine the medium's wide variety of hellscapes and how they choose to simulate endless torment. When you shuffle off this mortal coil, will you wander through an extradimensional building with no exit in Corpse Party, or will you face endless hordes of chittering skulls and insects in Devil Daggers? Perhaps you'll end up in a Living Hell of your own design, like poor ol' James of Silent Hill 2? Spin the wheel and decide your fate!

Notes

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastThis Easter, MisanthroPlay goes to Hell. Doom, Blood, Yokai Dochuuki, Devil Daggers, Hell: A Cyberpunk Thriller, Corpse Party, Kitty Horrorshow, Grace Jones(?!) and more! Hallelujah, it's Good Friday! In keeping with the theme of this wonderous four day weekend, this episode of MisanthroPlay discusses video game depictions of the hottest of afterlife destinations. From the heavy metal-tinged inferno of Doom to the filthy vermin-filled pits of Yokai Dochuuki, we examine the medium's wide variety of hellscapes and how they choose to simulate endless torment. When you shuffle off this mortal coil, will you wander through an extradimensional building with no exit in Corpse Party, or will you face endless hordes of chittering skulls and insects in Devil Daggers? Perhaps you'll end up in a Living Hell of your own design, like poor ol' James of Silent Hill 2? Spin the wheel and decide your fate!yes01:24:50Episode #8 Idol ChatterPodcastsFeaturesnurvussFri, 11 Mar 2016 12:00:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/3/10/episode85409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:56e1b39e859fd0abcac52abc

But hey! We're not the type of podcast that's content to go out on a negative, so we express our enthusiasm for upcoming hot 2016 releases Psycho Pass: Mandatory Happinessand No Man's Sky. This Podcast is not sponsored by Wilkinson's. Yet.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastTokyo Mirage Sessions: Problematic? Seriously? We tell you why. Also, Far Cry Primal, Bravely Second, Fire Emblem Fates, Stranger of Sword City, XCOM 2, SUPERHOT, and Nintendo Direct news!Thank Goodness it's MisanthroPlay! We've upgraded PCs and braved neck pain to bring you this exciting episode. This week, Alvin pets all the animals of Far Cry Primal and rebels against KAISER OBLIVION in Bravely Second: End Layer. Robert finds that Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest hasn't yet ignited a flame in his heart, but he finds a kindred spirit in a Stranger of Sword City. We also learned to stop worrying and love save-scumming in XCOM 2 and officially find SUPERHOT to be SUPERCOOL. Last week's Nintendo Direct has brought a wealth of exciting news: We yearn to robo-rock to Kirby Planet Robobot, we cautiously observe Paper Mario Color Splash. Notably, we learn that Atlus/Intelligent Systems collaboration Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE is financed by idol jimusho Avex, and why this causes an ethical dilemma. But hey! We're not the type of podcast that's content to go out on a negative, so we express our enthusiasm for upcoming hot 2016 releases Psycho Pass: Mandatory Happiness and No Man's Sky. This Podcast is not sponsored by Wilkinson's. Yet.yes02:00:27Episode #7 Fire Watch With UsPodcastsFeaturesnurvussSat, 05 Mar 2016 17:12:19 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/3/5/episode-7-fire-watch-with-us5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:56db0e7545bf214a0b3635bd

We're hot for Firewatch! In this week's episode of MisanthroPlay, Alvin and Robert have an in-depth discussion about Campo Santo's brilliant debut and its top shelf voice direction. After that, Alvin gets back to nature in Far Cry Primal, while Robert pages through Mario & Luigi Paper Jam, and we both question Steel Empire's style of punk.

In the news, Kojima and Del Toro get on stage at DICE to say nothing, Destiny 2 is announced/delayed, and Warren Spector returns to game development. All this and more, it's enough to burst your Darius! Just push play.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastFirewatch sets our hearts ablaze! Also: Far Cry Primal, Mario & Luigi Paper Jam, Steel Empire, Dariusburst. What's Kojima up to? There's a Destiny 2? Warren Spector is back! Just push play.We're hot for Firewatch! In this week's episode of MisanthroPlay, Alvin and Robert have an in-depth discussion about Campo Santo's brilliant debut and its top shelf voice direction. After that, Alvin gets back to nature in Far Cry Primal, while Robert pages through Mario & Luigi Paper Jam, and we both question Steel Empire's style of punk. In the news, Kojima and Del Toro get on stage at DICE to say nothing, Destiny 2 is announced/delayed, and Warren Spector returns to game development. All this and more, it's enough to burst your Darius! Just push play.no01:38:48Episode #6 Xeno Gear Solid?!FeaturesPodcastsnurvussThu, 18 Feb 2016 19:43:53 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2016/2/18/episode-6-xeno-gear-solid5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:56c60bf3a3360c5bdf1214eb

Happy New February! After many scheduling conflicts, Alvin and Robert reconvene to compare their travel logs of Xenoblade Chronicles X's lush Planet Mira and have a wider discussion of meaningful quest design in recent open world games, including Fallout 4, Just Cause 3 and Batman Arkham Knight, and Alvin observes examples of East-West pollination evident in the design of Xenoblade and XCOM 2.

In recent games, Alvin brings his wit & wisdom to The Witness and gets returns to Homeworld in Deserts of Kharak, while Robert broods over tragedy simulator Pathologic HD, and neither of us have a great time with Final Fantasy Explorers. We also fawn over Meitantei Pikachu, lament the fact that Unsung Story will remain unsung, and we tell you why you should put aside your social anxiety to break out your DanganRonpa and/or Watch_Dogs-branded wallet to back Knights & Bikes on Kickstarter.

And last, but certainly not least, what games podcast would be complete without a discussion of the recent controversy surrounding Fire Emblem Fates? All this and more, in MisanthroPlay Episode #6!

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastHappy New Year! We got down and dirty with Xenoblade Chronicles X, The Witness, Pathologic HD, Final Fantasy Explorers, Knights & Bikes, and more!Happy New February! After many scheduling conflicts, Alvin and Robert reconvene to compare their travel logs of Xenoblade Chronicles X's lush Planet Mira and have a wider discussion of meaningful quest design in recent open world games, including Fallout 4, Just Cause 3 and Batman Arkham Knight, and Alvin observes examples of East-West pollination evident in the design of Xenoblade and XCOM 2. In recent games, Alvin brings his wit & wisdom to The Witness and gets returns to Homeworld in Deserts of Kharak, while Robert broods over tragedy simulator Pathologic HD, and neither of us have a great time with Final Fantasy Explorers. We also fawn over Meitantei Pikachu, lament the fact that Unsung Story will remain unsung, and we tell you why you should put aside your social anxiety to break out your DanganRonpa and/or Watch_Dogs-branded wallet to back Knights & Bikes on Kickstarter. And last, but certainly not least, what games podcast would be complete without a discussion of the recent controversy surrounding Fire Emblem Fates? All this and more, in MisanthroPlay Episode #6!no2:00:29Episode #5 2015 in ReviewFeaturesPodcastsnurvussThu, 31 Dec 2015 11:19:36 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2015/12/31/episode-5-2015-in-review5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:5684ff614bf11848f0230a92

Honorable mention to Neko Atsume.

Wow, what a year 2015 has been! There have been so many amazing games released that we've hardly had time to play them all! That said, we did play a hell of a lot, and we talked about some of our favorites in no particular order. Did we miss your favorite? Leave us a comment and tell us what you liked!

This week's podcast features "NLA" from Xenoblade Chronicles X, "Studio City of Zeiss" from Trails in the Sky FC/SC, and "Ruins" and "Shop" from UNDERTALE.

Correction: During our discussion of Helldivers, Robert mistakenly attributes the game's soundtrack to Combichrist. In actuality, Helldivers was scored by Johan Lindgren. Ninja Theory's upcoming game Hellblade is set to be scored by Combichrist. Robert offers his apologies to Mr Lindgren and the folks at Arrowhead Game Studios.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastWow, what a year 2015 has been! There have been so many amazing games released that we've hardly had time to play them all! That said, we did play a hell of a lot, and we talked about some of our favorites in no particular order.Wow, what a year 2015 has been! There have been so many amazing games released that we've hardly had time to play them all! That said, we did play a hell of a lot, and we talked about some of our favorites in no particular order. Happy New Year! These are a few of our favorite things: The Phantom Pain, Bloodborne, Dying Light, The Witcher 3, Fallout 4, Xenoblade Chronicles X, Trails in the Sky SC, Read Only Memories, Life is Strange, Until Dawn, Undertale, Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth, Nuclear Throne, Cryptark, Galak-Z, Darkest Dungeon, Helldivers, Invisible Inc, Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate.yes01:50:52Episode #4 SOMAPodcastsFeaturesnurvussThu, 24 Dec 2015 17:02:42 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2015/12/24/soma5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:567c1f547086d78817abdd6e

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, we're talkin' `bout SOMA as if it's still Halloween! In the latest episode of MisanthroPlay, Alvin Chua and Robert Fenner have a lengthy discussion about Frictional Games' (Amnesia: The Dark Descent) latest offering, a deep sea horror story with some deep existential angst.

MisanthroPlay is now available on iTunes! So you can put it on your Zune or your Diamond Rio PMP300. If you like what you hear, it'd be really great if you could take a minute to rate and review us over there. Thanks!

Notes

The ending music for this episode is "What's There Left" by the Dutch minimal group Nine Circles.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastAlvin Chua and Robert Fenner sit down for a lengthy discussion about Frictional Games' latest offering, a deep sea horror story with some deep existential angst.'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, we're talkin' `bout SOMA as if it's still Halloween! In the latest episode of MisanthroPlay, Alvin Chua and Robert Fenner have a lengthy discussion about Frictional Games' (Amnesia: The Dark Descent) latest offering, a deep sea horror story with some deep existential angst.yes02:03:40Episode #3 Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom PainPodcastsFeaturesnurvussWed, 18 Nov 2015 12:53:09 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2015/11/16/metal-gear-solid-v-the-phantom-pain5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:564a116be4b0e4d23c45510f

We're back and we've gone all out! In a first for MisanthroPlay, Robert Fenner and Alvin Chua tackle a brand new game in the form of Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. Marking the end of Hideo Kojima's run on the 28-year-old Tactical Espionage Action series, Fenner and Chua sit down for two and a half hours to give The Phantom Pain the type of lengthy overwrought discussion that would make its director proud. Does it cap off the series satisfactorily? Does Miller make the world's greatest burger? Is Behind the Drapery the best Clan of Xymox song that never was (Spoilers: yes)? Listen and find out! (warning, here be ending spoilers)

Music Featured

No Kisses. - Maneater (Hall & Oates cover)

Ludwig Forssell - Afghanistan's a Big Place

Ludwig Forssell - I Am Skull Face

Ludwig Forssell - A Factory of Death

Ludwig Forssell - Kept You Waiting, Huh?

Ludwig Forssell - The Code Talker

Ludwig Forssell - Behind the Drapery

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastWarning, Spoilers Ahead! Robert Fenner and Alvin Chua sit down with Kojima's swansong to see if it lives up to the hype.Marking the end of Hideo Kojima's run on the 28-year-old Tactical Espionage Action series, Fenner and Chua sit down for two and a half hours to give The Phantom Pain the type of lengthy overwrought discussion that would make its director proud. Does it cap off the series satisfactorily? Does Miller make the world's greatest burger? Is Behind the Drapery the best Clan of Xymox song that never was (Spoilers: yes)? Listen and find out!yes02:37:28Episode #2 The Legacy of Assault SuitsPodcastsFeaturesnurvussTue, 22 Sep 2015 16:23:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2015/11/16/misanthroplay-2-the-legacy-of-assault-suits5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:564a107fe4b05d65636f4b4c

22 September 2015

In this long-delayed feature episode of MisanthroPlay, Alvin Chua and Robert Fenner sit down to talk about NCS Masaya's influential Assault Suits series and the impact its had on the mecha platformer genre.

Starting in 1991 with Assault Suits Leynos (AKA Target Earth) on the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, the series strove to differentiate itself from its forebears. Previous mecha platformers used the genre as little more than window dressing; a game like UPL's Atomic Robo Kid could easily replace the eponymous Robo Kid with a flying human and not alter its gameplay; But NCS Masaya's games added a believable sense of weight and physics to its character movement that worked to bring the illusion of piloting a giant robot to life with very successful results. Just as the debut ofMobile Suit Gundam would see the "Real Robot" genre overtake "Super Robot" in terms of popularity, Assault Suits arguably brought Hard SF to the platformer medium for the very first time.

In this episode, we discuss Assault Suits Leynos and Assault Suits Valken, as well as its spiritual successors Metal Warriors, Front Mission: Gun Hazard, Gigantic Army,Gunhound EX and the forthcoming PS4 remake of Leynos by Dracue. Unfortunately, we don't touch on Leynos 2 or Valken 2 as we were unable to obtain either of them.

Links of Note

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastIn this long-delayed feature episode of MisanthroPlay, Alvin Chua and Robert Fenner sit down to talk about NCS Masaya's influential Assault Suits series and the impact its had on the mecha platformer genre.Starting in 1991 with Assault Suits Leynos (AKA Target Earth) on the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, the series strove to differentiate itself from its forebears. Previous mecha platformers used the genre as little more than window dressing; a game like UPL's Atomic Robo Kid could easily replace the eponymous Robo Kid with a flying human and not alter its gameplay; But NCS Masaya's games added a believable sense of weight and physics to its character movement that worked to bring the illusion of piloting a giant robot to life with very successful results. Just as the debut of Mobile Suit Gundam would see the "Real Robot" genre overtake "Super Robot" in terms of popularity, Assault Suits arguably brought Hard SF to the platformer medium for the very first time.no01:04:22Mini-Episode #1 Faria!PodcastsnurvussMon, 23 Mar 2015 17:13:00 +0000http://www.misanthropop.com/misanthroplay/2015/11/16/misanthroplay-episode-1-faria5409bb32e4b00b9e17a01f9a:561ba240e4b04b433017fa9f:564a0d96e4b05d65636f2adc

23 March 2015

In the debut episode of MisanthroPlay Podcast, host Nervous Bob Nurvuss talks about the obscure NES RPG Faria: A World of Mystery and Danger! Adventures! Dungeons! Monsters! Weird sex changes? It's all here in the mystical land of Faria.

]]>MisanthroPlay PodcastMisanthroPlay talks about Faria! For NES! Feel the excitement!In the debut episode of MisanthroPlay Podcast, host Nervous Bob Nurvuss talks about the obscure NES RPG Faria: A World of Mystery and Danger! Adventures! Dungeons! Monsters! Weird sex changes? It's all here in the mystical land of Faria!no00:10:00